Rayyan Report | Week of 30 April

What a week we have had in school. Never have I seen children so focused, engaged and excited about Science. We began the week with a very exciting assembly led by our Director of Learning, Simon Porter, which really fired up the children’s imaginations and got them thinking as scientists.

Every day, the children have been involved in challenges; the enthusiasm and delight on the children’s faces has been a pleasure to see. I have watched demonstrations on how to make a hovercraft, build the tallest construction, make an exploding volcano, use electrical current to make things move and witnessed eggs and balloons dropping all over school. What is most important, is that the children were able to explain what they have learned using scientific vocabulary and give reasons for the changes taking place. They have hypothesised and tested their predictions, discussing and analysing what happened with their class mates, and formed conclusions. They have learned to question and think critically and had a wonderful time learning in the process. What an excellent week! I would like to thank Mr Akhtar for the planning and preparation that went into making this week so successful and the teachers for giving the children such wonderful learning opportunities. Please check Facebook and Twitter for photographs and activities.

On Wednesday we held the last FCS meeting of this academic year. The group already have some great events planned for next year. They have planned two cookery classes at the Al Sharq this month on 13th and 14th May. Please contact the School Secretary to book a place. Thank you to the FCS members who have worked so hard this year to support school and arrange enjoyable activities and family days.

This week, one of our students, Nero Stipicic, is in Boston participating in the MIT Cambridge Science Fair. Every day, he has been involved in challenges and tasks set by the team, working alongside students from NAE schools all over the world. What an amazing opportunity and experience. I am sure he will have lots to tell us on his return and I am very proud of how he has represented our school.

As the temperature rises, children are having indoor break more and more. It is important that they keep hydrated so please make sure your child has plenty to drink and a refillable water bottle in school.

Yesterday evening we had a presentation on the International Baccalaureate (IB) at our Gharaffa Campus. This is a world class course offered in Years 12 and 13 at our school and gives children access to the best universities in the world. The IPC in primary school prepares children for IB and a creative week like STEAM week, where children learn knowledge and skills to develop their understanding goes a long way to encourage risk taking and critical thinking in children. We have some booklets in Reception if you would like to find out more about the IB.

Last weekend, Rayyan children participated in the Triathlon organised by Qatar Foundation. On Friday, teams and individual racers took part in the event and demonstrated their skills. Congratulations to our Rayyan students who placed in 1st and 3rd places throughout the competition!

1st Place Team: Jasmine, Adam, Ava

3rd Place Team: Menna, David, Jacob

3rd Place Individual: Ollie

We are very proud of all the children who competed and all showed amazing sportsmanship!